Ghana's national women's football team, the Black Queens, are poised to challenge for the Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) title in 2026. This marks their 12th appearance in the continental tournament, with high expectations of ending a long trophy drought. The team secured their spot through an impressive victory over Egypt last October, ensuring their second consecutive WAFCON participation after missing the 2022 edition.
This year's tournament carries significant weight as it also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup. Unlike previous editions where public sentiment was cautious, fans now express optimism regarding the Black Queens' prospects. The team has reached the WAFCON final three times, losing each occasion to Nigeria's Super Falcons in 1998, 2002, and 2006.
The current squad boasts considerable experience, a critical factor for their improved performance. In the 2024 WAFCON, 19 players were debutants at that level, impacting their initial tournament play. For the 2026 edition, 18 players from the previous squad have returned, providing invaluable continental experience. Newcomers include Osman Huzeimah, Alex Tay, Benedicte Simon, Abena Anoma Opoku, Linda Owusu Ansah, Sharon Sampson, and Abi Kim, who will integrate into an already seasoned team.
A major advantage for the Black Queens is the continuity of their coaching staff. Head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren, who joined only four months before the last WAFCON, has now completed a full cycle with the team. This extended period has allowed the Swedish trainer to fully implement his strategies and build strong team cohesion. This stability is expected to translate into a more refined and effective performance on the field.
The team's preparation has also been significantly enhanced. Despite playing three fewer pre-tournament matches than in the lead-up to the last WAFCON, the Black Queens have spent more collective time together. Their preparatory fixtures included competitive games against England, Hong Kong, Russia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Malawi. These matches, including participation in the Pink Ladies' Cup, provided crucial high-level exposure. In these five games, the team scored 13 goals while conceding only one, demonstrating strong offensive and defensive capabilities.
Furthermore, the Black Queens held a dedicated training camp in Ghana during the June window. During this camp, they engaged in internal matches and played against Ghanaian champions Ampem Darkoa Ladies and a boys' team. This comprehensive preparation aims to ensure the players are in peak physical and tactical condition for the demanding tournament. The combination of an experienced squad, consistent coaching, and thorough preparation positions the Black Queens strongly for a successful WAFCON 2026 campaign and a potential return to the FIFA Women's World Cup after a 20-year absence.